Spain concluded their World Cup preparations with a disappointing 1-1 draw against Iraq at Estadio Riazor on Thursday evening. The match, which served as the final warm-up before the tournament, saw eight players make their debuts for La Roja, but only one of them will travel to the United States for the World Cup. The result, while not alarming, highlighted the experimental nature of the lineup fielded by coach Luis de la Fuente.
De la Fuente made 11 substitutions during the game and rested key players such as Rodri, Pedri, Nico Williams, and Lamine Yamal, the latter still recovering from a hamstring injury. Ten of the players who will feature in the World Cup were not included in the squad, with the coach opting to give minutes to a support squad that had been training with the team. The starting XI featured only three likely starters for the World Cup: Pedro Porro, Aymeric Laporte, and Dani Olmo.
Spain took the lead in the 15th minute through Ferran Torres, who finished a swift counter-attack initiated by Aymeric Laporte. However, Iraq equalised before half-time with a stunning strike from Merchas Doski, whose cross-cum-shot beat goalkeeper Joan García. Torres hit the bar and Olmo volleyed over as Spain pushed for a winner, but the match ended level.
Despite the underwhelming performance, Spain remain among the favourites for the World Cup. The match offered little insight into their likely tactics, with the team playing a 4-2-3-1 formation that differed from their usual 4-3-3. De la Fuente will be pleased with Laporte's composure in possession, but concerns remain over the fitness of key players like Lamine Yamal, who has not played since April.
